The suspect backed into a Tampa police car, officers said.

TAMPA – Two officers are on paid administrative leave after they shot at a suspect Saturday (Sept. 10), according to the Tampa Police Department.

Joel Alexander Cook, 20, was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. He was listed in stable condition. It is unclear if he received his injuries from a car crash or was hit by gunfire. Police said Cook had been released from the Hillsborough County Jail on Sept. 1. He was serving time for grand theft motor vehicle.

On paid leave while an investigation into the incident is ongoing are Joseph Aduddell, a five-year veteran of the Tampa department, and David Alverson, a four and a half year veteran.

The incident began about 9:30 p.m. near Florida Avenue and Ida Street when police say they stopped a Toyota Corolla because it had a missing headlight. The officers said they found that the car was stolen. Cook fled from the traffic stop in the stolen car and eventually crashed into a tree near a home on Floribraska Avenue and Tampa Street, police said.

When officers tried to approach, Cook put the Toyota into reverse and backed onto the hood of the officers’ patrol cruiser. Police said the two officers shot at Cook.

For information about the Tampa Police Department, go to tampagov.net.

Tampa Police | Officer-Involved Shooting | Stolen Car | Crime | TB Reporter

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